Mutant carrots

In San Francisco, Utilitarian Franchise produce a whole wealth of screen-printed textiles that celebrate organic matter (as well as one or two industrially produced items too - yep, there is a gun.) What I love about their designs is that they are not only extremely well drawn, but are also very clever. A favourite technique is the creation of human/vegetable hybrids - mutant carrots with roving eyes for example - which are novel and surprisingly attractive. I was immediately reminded of the paintings of Renaissance artist Arcimboldo (the one who painted the men with vegetable heads- below) so they are clearly in good company!

Archimboldo "Summer" and "Water".

The shop includes a whole host of insect designs and all come in a variety of vibrant colours. I recommend a scroll through the Etsy shop as there are quite a few little surprises in store!